Discover When It’s Appropriate for Your Child to Receive Braces in Mesquite

Just because your child’s teeth look as if they need braces in Mesquite doesn’t actually mean they’re old enough for them. There are a variety of factors that come into play in determining when a child is old enough to seek treatment for different dental issues, including crooked teeth. While you may not know the right age, your child’s orthodontist does, so read on to find out when it’s the appropriate time for braces.

Braces: How Metal and Wire Can Fix a Variety of Problems

If you think the only thing braces can fix is crooked teeth, guess again! Surprisingly, these small bits of metal wire and brackets can do more than move teeth. People turn to braces to fix a variety of dental problems, including:

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open Bite
• Overcrowding
• Gaps between teeth

The reason it is so important to receive orthodontic treatment to fix the above-mentioned problems is that misaligned bites can cause excessive wear and breakage to certain teeth because of added pressure. Additionally, if your bite causes your jaw to receive an excessive amount of pressure, it can lead to TMJ. Finally, if your teeth are unevenly spaced, it can make it more difficult to keep your pearly whites clean, increasing your risk for tooth decay and gum disease.

Why Age is a Factor When Considering Braces

Once your child reaches the age of 7, it is possible for them to receive traditional braces. Why so early? At this age, your child’s orthodontist in Mesquite can work to fix any problems before they advance or become worse. However, some problems, such as bite issues may require waiting until your child’s adult teeth come in because the lower jaw is still growing. When adult teeth begin to appear, it can sometimes address issues of overcrowding or spacing, forgoing the need for braces.

Traditional Braces: How They Work

Depending on how old your child is, he or she may want a less noticeable option than metal braces. The problem with kids getting treatments such as Invisalign is that it requires a high level of responsibility on the part of the patient. Traditional braces tend to be the option for young children and adolescents. Using brackets, wires, and bands, teeth will gradually shift over the course of 12 to 24 months. Your child will need to visit his or her orthodontist every 4 to 6 weeks for an adjustment, providing just enough pressure to keep the teeth moving in the right direction.

If your child’s crooked teeth need the help of a professional, don’t assume treatment will be provided immediately. It’s better to have a trusted orthodontist evaluate your kid’s smile and provide the appropriate treatment plan.

About the Practice
At Bear Creek Family Dentistry Mesquite office, our team of dentists and specialists are ready to help you navigate life with braces. Orthodontic care is important to maintaining good oral health, which is why you can expect our professionals to evaluate your smile and offer treatment options to meet your needs. Contact us via our website or by calling (469) 778-4135 to learn more.